As the European Union faces critical challenges, Ursula von der Leyen’s future as European Commission President remains uncertain. The European Parliament will vote on July 18 to determine if she’ll secure a second five-year term.
Rallying European support for Ukraine
Von der Leyen’s first term saw significant achievements. She launched ambitious climate change policies, implemented an €800 billion COVID-19 response, and rallied EU support for Ukraine. However, she now needs at least 361 votes from 720 lawmakers to retain her position. This high-stakes vote comes amid growing global uncertainties, including Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, an unpredictable U.S. presidential election, and China’s increasing assertiveness.
Supporters argue that von der Leyen offers much-needed stability. Conversely, blocking her appointment could plunge the EU into political turmoil, potentially delaying the new European Commission until 2025.
Von der Leyen must win over key groups
To secure victory, von der Leyen must win over key parliamentary groups: the European People’s Party (EPP), Socialists, Liberals, and possibly the Greens or European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR). Yet, conflicting demands complicate her path. The Greens insist on strengthening climate policies, while the ECR pushes for their weakening. Some lawmakers have already declared their opposition.
Von der Leyen has been actively campaigning, even skipping a NATO summit to garner support. Despite her efforts, many lawmakers remain undecided, awaiting her speech on Thursday outlining future plans.
Potential European crisis on the horizon?
The stakes are high. Failure to secure approval could embolden Eurosceptic parties, disrupt EU institutions, and create a leadership vacuum. With no clear alternative candidate, the EU faces a potential crisis if von der Leyen falls short. Some fear that blocking her could be seen as a victory for far-right factions, whose influence has grown following recent elections.
As Europe grapples with internal divisions and external threats, this vote will shape the continent’s future. Will von der Leyen’s promise of continuity prevail, or will the EU be forced to chart a new course?
With inputs from Reuters
